What should you know about mycoplasma pneumonia symptoms?

Mycoplasma pneumonia is a lung infection. A dry or irritating cough may become persistent, with fever, headache, sore throat, tiredness, chills or coughing up phlegm. Chest discomfort and shortness of breath can occur, especially when the infection affects more lung tissue. Symptoms overlap with COVID-19, influenza and other causes of pneumonia, so symptoms alone cannot identify the germ.

Children, older adults and people with long-term lung or immune problems may show a different pattern. A clinician may listen to your chest and decide whether you need an X-ray or laboratory test.

Arrange medical advice when cough and fever are worsening, breathing feels harder, or you are unusually weak. Rest, drink fluids if you can, avoid smoking and follow prescribed treatment. Keep distance from vulnerable household members while you have fever or active respiratory symptoms, and improve ventilation.

Record changes in breathing, temperature and phlegm so you can describe them clearly. Do not use leftover antibiotics or combine cold medicines without checking their ingredients.

Get urgent help for severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, severe chest pain, inability to drink, or a rapid deterioration. A person who is difficult to wake or has signs of sepsis needs emergency assessment. Do not wait for symptoms to match a particular list.

Ask whether your symptoms fit pneumonia, whether COVID-19 or influenza testing is appropriate, whether imaging is needed, and what change should trigger urgent review. Ask when you can return to work, school or exercise.